Student Handbook

The 2012-13 CalArts Student Handbook, which contains both academic policies and a guide to navigating CalArts, was updated on February 15, 2013. This handbook is the most current edition and replaces any previous copies.

If you need a reproduction in another format, please contact the Office of Student Affairs at: studentaffairs@calarts.edu or 661.253.7874.

• Download the Student Handbook 2012 - 13

CalArts' Alcohol and Drugs Policy (excerpt)

Both federal and state laws prohibit the unlawful possession or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol. In the state of California anyone under the age of 21 cannot be served or be in possession of alcohol. CalArts also has standards that prohibit the unlawful possession, use, transport, manufacture or distribution of illicit drugs, drug paraphernalia or simulated drugs and alcohol by students, staff and faculty on Institute property or as part of the Institute’s activities. Alcohol may not be sold anywhere on the CalArts campus. Violations of the Institute’s alcohol and drug policy will be addressed as disciplinary actions (see the Disciplinary Policy section in this handbook).

Reference to alcohol includes any beverage, mixture or preparation containing ethyl alcohol such as beer, wine and all forms of distilled liquor. Drugs are any substances that have known mind or function-altering effects on a human subject, specifically including psychoactive substances and including but not limited to substances controlled, regulated or prohibited by state and federal laws.

CalArts permits the lawful serving of beer and/or wine at parties and receptions that have been approved by the Associate Vice President of Facilities. Students, faculty and staff who wish to host receptions in connection with approved events should fill out the appropriate application with the Institute Scheduler at least one week prior to the proposed event. (See the Reception Procedures section in this handbook). In the public areas of campus, the only permitted alcohol is alcohol served at approved receptions or parties. Public areas include but are not limited to the galleries and performance spaces, offices, classrooms, outdoor spaces, and work areas as designated by the Schools. Alcohol is generally not approved for events before 5 p.m. Monday–Friday or during classes or performances. The Associate Vice President of Facilities makes the final decision on any issues regarding the date, time or nature of an event. After approval from the relevant offices, the host of the reception must discuss the event with the ActivitiesCoordinator in the Student Affairs Office in order to schedule a trained bartender to serve the alcohol to those of legal drinking age.

Responsible Action: CalArts is concerned that in a medical emergency involving alcohol or drugs, students may refrain from calling for help because of fear that doing so might subject them to disciplinary action. Therefore, in order to encourage responsible actions, students for whom medical assistance is sought or those who seek medical assistance for themselves or others, will not be disciplined by CalArts for violating the Alcohol and Drug Policy. This Responsible Action policy applies only to alcohol and drug-related emergencies. Students granted amnesty will not be exempt from disciplinary sanctions resulting from other policies that they violate while under the influence.

*The full Alcohol and Drug Policy can be found on pages 6-7 of the Student Handbook